1996 Montiano
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Tasting notes
The 1996 Montiano (100% Merlot) was bottled unfined and unfiltered, after aging in French oak casks. Sadly, there are only 500 cases produced. It boasts an opaque purple color, followed by a knock-out nose of blackberry liqueur intermingled with smoke, pain grille, and chocolate. Full-bodied and thick, with a voluptuous texture, layered richness, superb purity, and a finish that lasts over 30 seconds, this is a profoundly concentrated and complex Merlot to drink now, and over the next 10-15 years. Kudos to Riccardo Cotarella. This is a tour de force in winemaking, compliments of the brilliant Italian oenologist, Riccardo Cotarella, who is also the proprietor of this estate's 30-acre vineyard. A Leonardo Locasio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Deep ruby color. Restrained aromas of dark berries, plum, chocolate, coffee, menthol and nutty oak. Fat, supple and rich, with smooth, moderately sweet plummy flavor and strong extract. Really expands on the finish, which features fine, dusty tannins and lovely sweetness. Jan 1999, www.vinous.com
The 1996 Montiano (100% Merlot) was bottled unfined and unfiltered, after aging in French oak casks. Sadly, there are only 500 cases produced. It boasts an opaque purple color, followed by a knock-out nose of blackberry liqueur intermingled with smoke, pain grille, and chocolate. Full-bodied and thick, with a voluptuous texture, layered richness, superb purity, and a finish that lasts over 30 seconds, this is a profoundly concentrated and complex Merlot to drink now, and over the next 10-15 years. Kudos to Riccardo Cotarella. Oct 1998, www.robertparker.com
Wine Spectator's Highly Recommended 2000